feature in mulund-powai plus (toi) 24th nov 2007

It took only 15 minutes for an enthusiastic group of youngsters to explain the various uses of the RTI and how one could sucessfully file an application for necessary information. During the innovative street play devised by Dnyeyam, a youth group, Mulundkars watched as two young men, modelled on the popular duo Munnabhai and Circuit, discussed the RTI.

The play was first performed on November 17, outside Mulund east station and then outside Chintamani Gardens, and drew a lot of spectators.
“The only way to help end a problem is by developing awareness about it, and what better way than through the most traditional medium of street plays,” share the founders of the group.

“Using characters such as Munnabhai and his loyal friend Circuit, is a great idea as it immediately appeals to people,” says Bharti Mane, a spectator. The play brought to the forefront the reason for the RTI Act, the importance of using it and the correct way by which an application can be made to rightfully obtain information.

The actors relied on time-tested tactics to attract the attention of the busy citizens. They began by striking a steel plate with a spoon. “If we call ourselves a democratic country, then the RTI is one of the tools that confer power on the common man.
Until and unless people know their rights, they can’t fight oppression,” points out Umakant Nadkar, a member of the group. The RTI Act has been in the news for many years now, yet, most people are not aware about it. And even if they are, most of them do not want to get hassled with the paperwork involved.

“I had not heard about the RTI Act, but now have enough basic knowledge and will find out more about it. And yes, I will use it when the time comes,” says Mahesh Soni, a spectator. Pramod Konzarkar, a senior citizen, who watched the play, strongly feels that the youth should participate in more awareness building causes and spread information about educational reforms, pollution and so on. He believes that such grass-root efforts are not a “waste of time”, but in fact a timely investment, which definitely has a long term effect.

One of founders notes, “We need to have more such street plays on a consistent basis, only then will it have a deeper impact and develop sensitivity among people. We have to inspire them to take up issues on their own.”